Career and Technical Education students from Homewood-Flossmoor High School earned top recognition at Prairie State College’s inaugural Business Pioneer Pitch Competition, where student entrepreneurs presented innovative business concepts to a panel of judges. The event challenged participants to develop business models, refine their presentations, and demonstrate entrepreneurial thinking.
The first-place award in the Near-Future Development category was earned by Quentin Betts, Myles Ellis, John Gadson Jr., and Benjamin Harris for their business concept, Millows Pillows. The team impressed judges with its innovative approach, strong collaboration, and strategic planning. Shane Bacon earned second place in the Low-Cost Startup Business category for Shane’s Shoe Scrub, a business concept recognized for its practicality and potential for immediate implementation.
Additional recognition was awarded to Kaci Stove and Shakti Smith, whose business concept, Clear Course, received an Honorable Mention for its strong research, thoughtful planning, and effective presentation. These achievements highlight the creativity, innovation, and entrepreneurial skills being developed through CTE programs and demonstrate students’ readiness for future business and leadership opportunities.
